While every life has its share of ups and downs regarding stress. With chronic stress - ignoring it, or waiting for it to fix itself, could be deadly. Each of us is equipped to deal with a certain amount of stress. If we know good coping mechanisms, we may think we have it all under control. However, chronic stress can indeed be fatal, and it’s important we recognize the warning signs for when it’s time to take action.
How Stress is Deadly
Chronic stress increases the stress hormone cortisol, which over time, can wreak havoc on your body. It weakens the immune system, increases blood pressure and risk of heart attack or stroke, and causes digestive problems like IBS and ulcers. It can also affect our mood leading to depression and negative thoughts. Lastly, it can lead to poor food choices and the use of drugs and alcohol to self-medicate.
The Signs of Chronic Stress
So how do we avoid chronic stress? First we need to identify it. Physical symptoms like headache, muscle pain, chest pain, fatigue, sleep problems, digestive problems, and frequent colds. Emotional symptoms like feeling anxious, irritable, depressed, loss of interest in favorite activities, social withdrawal, etc. Lastly, behavior like using drugs and alcohol, smoking, nail-biting, isolating and procrastinating.
Acupuncture for Chronic Stress
Now what do you do if you have chronic stress? For one, acupuncture is great. It releases endorphins that make you feel relaxed, it shifts the nervous system from fight or flight to rest and recovery, and it improves circulation.
Other Helpful Coping Mechanisms
Moderate exercise is a great way to manage stress, even if it’s just cleaning the house, or going for a walk. The mind and body are connected, and sometimes the best way to get out of stress is to “get out of your worrying head” by activating your body with exercise. You could also try relaxation exercises like deep breathing or meditation, yoga, tai chi, massage, Other fixes include: healthy diet, enough sleep, less screen time, more time with nurturing people, and seeing a psychiatrist or good talk therapist. These all work great, so just pick one or two. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed before you even start. The best method is the one you actually do!
Reach Out!
If you want to learn more about Acupuncture for chronic stress, or just want to talk with someone who has been there, reach out to me at Community Zen Acupuncture!
Michael Savalli LAc
Community Zen Acupuncture
Commack, NY
(934) 221-7111
Image by stockking on Freepik
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